National Science Centre, OPUS 19 “Research on the epidemiology of alveolar echinococcosis in selected endemic and non-endemic areas in Poland, with particular emphasis on the diversity of genetic profiles of Echinococcus multilocularis in definitive hosts and humans” 11.02.2021 – 10.02.2025

Project Leader: Anna Monika Lass, PhD, ScD, Medical University of Gdańsk

Funding: PLN 316,800.00

Project Description: Echinococcus multilocularis is the most dangerous parasite in the Northern Hemisphere, causing alveolar echinococcosis (AE), a disease with a mortality rate exceeding 90% in the absence of appropriate treatment. Infection occurs through ingestion of parasite eggs excreted into the environment in the feces of infected definitive hosts, primarily foxes. Despite increasing knowledge about the genetic diversity of E. multilocularis, the circulation of tapeworm genotypes in the environment and among hosts remains a mystery. Therefore, this project focuses primarily on investigating genetic profiles in definitive hosts of E. multilocularis and humans in selected regions of Poland, taking into account their current epidemic status. It is of great importance to examine the relationship between genetic profiles and the ability to infect humans. Additionally, an attempt will be made to determine the role of dogs in the epidemiology of alveolar echinococcosis. The research will be conducted in two voivodeships: the endemic Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship and the non-endemic Pomeranian Voivodeship. Samples from foxes, dogs, and humans with AE will be tested for the presence of E. multilocularis using molecular techniques. Subsequently, the genetic profiles of parasite isolates will be examined using mitochondrial and microsatellite markers as well as a new method of dynamic DNA representation. We expect that the results of our research will provide precise and objective information on the prevalence of the parasite and its genotypes in wild and domestic definitive hosts, as well as the role of dogs in parasite transmission to humans. As a result, the research proposed in this project will fill a national and global knowledge gap regarding the epidemiology of alveolar echinococcosis. The project aligns with global trends in environmental research concerning threats to human health and life. Information on the genetic diversity of E. multilocularis is necessary to complement research on parasite transmission dynamics and consequently develop new monitoring and control strategies, as well as shed light on the relationship between the parasite’s genetic profile and pathogenicity. By applying the new method of dynamic DNA representation, we will supplement data on the genetic diversity of isolates obtained through classical genotyping methods. Furthermore, demonstrating the level of infection in dogs in endemic and non-endemic, rural and urban areas will allow us to understand whether and where dogs may pose a real threat to their owners.